NRI Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Data

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What Is Geographic Information Systems?
Iowa GIS Information
Minnesota GIS Information
Definitions & How to Use ArcExplorer


What Is Geographic Information Systems?

A GIS is mapping software that links information about where things are on the land with information about what things are like. A GIS program can combine many data layers or coverages of information. Simply put, a GIS combines layers of information about a place to give you a better understanding of that place. What layers of information you combine depends on your purpose-finding the best location for a new store, analyzing environmental damage, viewing similar crimes in a city to detect a pattern, and so on. For example, data layers such as slopes, water resources, and existing vegetation could be combined to identify areas sensitive to development.

The benefits of using a Geographic Information System, according to GIS.com, include improved management of data and resources. A GIS creates common databases that can be shared among departments, agencies and the public. By doing this a person or organization can benefit from the work of another person or organization. "Data can be collected once and used many times." GIS also serves as a tool to query, analyze and map data in support of the decision making process. Because GIS products can be produced quickly, multiple scenarios can be evaluated efficiently and effectively. Finally, GIS can map any data you wish. It has been said, "If you can describe it, it can be mapped." GIS is more flexible than traditional cartographic approaches in that a GIS database is continuous and scale free. This means a map product can be centered on any location, at any scale or show selected information to highlight specific information. A map can be made at any time, any scale for anyone, as long as you have the data.

ESRI's GIS software, ARCView, can be purchased from their website or a free, simple version, ARCExplorer, can be downloaded. To download, visit www.esri.com, follow the links to software, then ARCExplorer and follow the instructions to download the appropriate version based on the computer's operating system.

http://www.esri.com/company/free.html#software

For more information on Geographic Information Systems, visit www.gis.com.

"The application of GIS is limited only by the imagination of those who use it."
Jack Dangermond
President, ESRI

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